2022 Holiday Message
Legion 6’s Organizational Message


 

It is that time of year that we gather with family and friends to celebrate and reflect upon all we’ve done and accomplished in 2022. We have many highlights to look back upon and many things to be proud of as this organization continues to operate at a high level.

In the last 18 months, more than 2,000 Virginia National Guard personnel have mobilized on federal active duty in the United States and overseas, the most since 2007. VNG Soldiers on duty in the U.S. provided engineer, transportation and unmanned aerial surveillance support to Customs and Border Protection on the Southwest Border and cyberspace operations support to U.S. Cyber Command. Soldiers deployed overseas provided mission command for multi-national forces in Kuwait, mission command and base life support in Iraq and Kuwait, a security response force in the Horn of Africa, air defense site security in Iraq and conducted NATO peace support operations in Kosovo. VNG Airmen also supported a shortnotice air superiority support in the United Arab Emirates.

Our Servicemembers continue to answer the call and do so with the highest levels of professionalism. I also want to acknowledge the essential role our families play in the readiness of the force. They provide the foundational support for everything we do and I can’t thank them enough. And I also want to recognize our employers who continue to be great partners in our endeavors.

Lastly – I want to acknowledge that the holidays can also be a challenging time for some of those among us. If you find yourself struggling, or know someone who is, don't be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. You can find resources at Military OneSource, https://www.militaryonesource.mil. If you or a loved one are in crisis, reach out to the Veterans/Military Crisis Line for confidential support available 24/7. Dial 988 then Press 1, or Call 800-273-8255, text 838255, or chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net/gethelp-now/chat/. Seeking help is a strength and we must all work to increase our resilient capabilities across the force.

Cheryl and I wish everyone a peaceful and joyous holiday and wish you all the best in the coming year. And our thoughts and prayers go out to the VNG Soldiers who are currently providing engineer utilities support in Kuwait as well as selected personnel serving as individual augmentees. We look forward to their safe return in early 2023.

Legion 6